Salmonella victim speaks out about 'two weeks of hell' after eating at The Real China in Eastleigh

ONE of the 30 diners struck down by an outbreak of salmonella after eating at the same Hampshire restaurant has described his “two weeks of hell” battling the infection.

George Williams, 20, became so unwell he ended up in hospital where doctors feared he might have Crohn’s Disease, a chronic bowel condition.

However medics finally diagnosed salmonella after further tests.

George has been suffering with vomiting, diarrhoea and stomach cramps for the past fortnight.

He is one of 30 people, including a three-year-old child, struck down by food poisoning after eating at The Real China in Eastleigh.

The Real China restaurant in Eastleigh which is closed while health officials probe a salmonella outbreak.

The town centre restaurant, the only Hampshire branch of the chain’s more than 20 UK restaurants, has closed voluntarily while the environmental health team at Eastleigh Borough Council investigates, as revealed by the Daily Echo on Saturday.

The venue remains shut until the council and Public Health England pin down the source of the outbreak and are satisfied there is no longer a health risk.

The council has traced the outbreak to July 11 when George, who works in telesales in Romsey, dined at the restaurant with friends.

He first became unwell two days later and has been unable to retain any food in his body for long.

At first he put it down to stress, but then doctors suspected it might be food poisoning and conducted further tests.

Eventually they referred him to Southampton General Hospital where doctors confirmed on Friday it was salmonella.

He was kept in overnight in an isolated room and put on a drip to rehydrate him.

“It’s definitely the worst illness I have ever had. I have missed out on so much sleep, I have got no energy at all.

“Even though I have got an appetite I can’t eat.

“It’s just scary – how long am I going to feel like this for?”

Eastleigh Borough Council is appealing for anyone who has eaten there and is suffering from symptoms of food poisoning, which includes diarrhoea, stomach cramps and sometimes vomiting and fever, to ring 023 8068 8329.

Despite repeated attempts by the Daily Echo to contact the company, it has not responded to requests for a comment.

It always amazes me, despite the constant reports of food poisoning, filthy premises, rat, mouse and cockroach infestations, and the fact that the people who run these joints have absolutely no idea about food hygiene, why are you so stupid that you think you are going to be immune to the disgusting practices that go on in these filthy holes.

Personally I have never set foot in one of these joints or any poison on a skewer and/or pizza holes and have never been poisoned or consumed any vermin droppings and I think anyone who frequents these places asks for and deserves what they get.

Also, who the hell, apart from an off his head drunk would eat any of that thing that looks like an elephant turd that's been spinning around in the window for six months and actually grows in size due to the bacteria multiplying, disgusting muck, all of it.

It always amazes me, despite the constant reports of food poisoning, filthy premises, rat, mouse and cockroach infestations, and the fact that the people who run these joints have absolutely no idea about food hygiene, why are you so stupid that you think you are going to be immune to the disgusting practices that go on in these filthy holes.
Personally I have never set foot in one of these joints or any poison on a skewer and/or pizza holes and have never been poisoned or consumed any vermin droppings and I think anyone who frequents these places asks for and deserves what they get.
Also, who the hell, apart from an off his head drunk would eat any of that thing that looks like an elephant turd that's been spinning around in the window for six months and actually grows in size due to the bacteria multiplying, disgusting muck, all of it.Chris storey

I was in there on the 9th for my wedding anniversary and have had no problems. One piece of iffy meat is all it takes.
Everyone is quick to condemn them now but the place was always packed when I went there.
I think there are far too many people running the place down that have either never been there or never had a bad word before all this started.
I personally will be very sorry if it doesn't re-open, saying that I will want to make sure first the problem has been cleared up properly.

I was in there on the 9th for my wedding anniversary and have had no problems. One piece of iffy meat is all it takes.
Everyone is quick to condemn them now but the place was always packed when I went there.
I think there are far too many people running the place down that have either never been there or never had a bad word before all this started.
I personally will be very sorry if it doesn't re-open, saying that I will want to make sure first the problem has been cleared up properly.queenb

Chris storey wrote:
It always amazes me, despite the constant reports of food poisoning, filthy premises, rat, mouse and cockroach infestations, and the fact that the people who run these joints have absolutely no idea about food hygiene, why are you so stupid that you think you are going to be immune to the disgusting practices that go on in these filthy holes.

Personally I have never set foot in one of these joints or any poison on a skewer and/or pizza holes and have never been poisoned or consumed any vermin droppings and I think anyone who frequents these places asks for and deserves what they get.

Also, who the hell, apart from an off his head drunk would eat any of that thing that looks like an elephant turd that's been spinning around in the window for six months and actually grows in size due to the bacteria multiplying, disgusting muck, all of it.

well done you. Big round of applause.
Have a bit of compassion. No one wants to hear your 'I told you so' comments thanks.
My daughter is on day 9 of this awful bout of Salmonella.
We are a responsible family and have the common sense not to eat from dirty burger vans or kebab shops. In fact we hardly eat out at all. This was a 'treat'- although admittedly I wouldn't really call it that as the food wasn't great.
We ate in a 'family buffet' restaurant part of a large entertainment complex. Yes we have learned a lesson but being a large chain and in prominent place we thought we could trust it.
Shame on you for being so self righteous and judgmental. I just hope you never have to go through watching your loved ones suffer.
I really hope the guy in this story makes a good recovery soon and that this gives the council even more evidence for shutting this place for good.

[quote][p][bold]Chris storey[/bold] wrote:
It always amazes me, despite the constant reports of food poisoning, filthy premises, rat, mouse and cockroach infestations, and the fact that the people who run these joints have absolutely no idea about food hygiene, why are you so stupid that you think you are going to be immune to the disgusting practices that go on in these filthy holes.
Personally I have never set foot in one of these joints or any poison on a skewer and/or pizza holes and have never been poisoned or consumed any vermin droppings and I think anyone who frequents these places asks for and deserves what they get.
Also, who the hell, apart from an off his head drunk would eat any of that thing that looks like an elephant turd that's been spinning around in the window for six months and actually grows in size due to the bacteria multiplying, disgusting muck, all of it.[/p][/quote]well done you. Big round of applause.
Have a bit of compassion. No one wants to hear your 'I told you so' comments thanks.
My daughter is on day 9 of this awful bout of Salmonella.
We are a responsible family and have the common sense not to eat from dirty burger vans or kebab shops. In fact we hardly eat out at all. This was a 'treat'- although admittedly I wouldn't really call it that as the food wasn't great.
We ate in a 'family buffet' restaurant part of a large entertainment complex. Yes we have learned a lesson but being a large chain and in prominent place we thought we could trust it.
Shame on you for being so self righteous and judgmental. I just hope you never have to go through watching your loved ones suffer.
I really hope the guy in this story makes a good recovery soon and that this gives the council even more evidence for shutting this place for good.mamma2780

Chris storey wrote:
It always amazes me, despite the constant reports of food poisoning, filthy premises, rat, mouse and cockroach infestations, and the fact that the people who run these joints have absolutely no idea about food hygiene, why are you so stupid that you think you are going to be immune to the disgusting practices that go on in these filthy holes.

Personally I have never set foot in one of these joints or any poison on a skewer and/or pizza holes and have never been poisoned or consumed any vermin droppings and I think anyone who frequents these places asks for and deserves what they get.

Also, who the hell, apart from an off his head drunk would eat any of that thing that looks like an elephant turd that's been spinning around in the window for six months and actually grows in size due to the bacteria multiplying, disgusting muck, all of it.

Goodness me ..... whilst i dont disagree with most of your comments you must find it very difficult to eat anywhere ...
.
Do you think that pubs, hotels, cafes, restaurants or even pre-prepared meals in supermarkets are any or much better ....
.
Whilst i am sure that your own kitchen is spotless do you ever consider how the foods are prepared that you cook in your kitchen ?

[quote][p][bold]Chris storey[/bold] wrote:
It always amazes me, despite the constant reports of food poisoning, filthy premises, rat, mouse and cockroach infestations, and the fact that the people who run these joints have absolutely no idea about food hygiene, why are you so stupid that you think you are going to be immune to the disgusting practices that go on in these filthy holes.
Personally I have never set foot in one of these joints or any poison on a skewer and/or pizza holes and have never been poisoned or consumed any vermin droppings and I think anyone who frequents these places asks for and deserves what they get.
Also, who the hell, apart from an off his head drunk would eat any of that thing that looks like an elephant turd that's been spinning around in the window for six months and actually grows in size due to the bacteria multiplying, disgusting muck, all of it.[/p][/quote]Goodness me ..... whilst i dont disagree with most of your comments you must find it very difficult to eat anywhere ...
.
Do you think that pubs, hotels, cafes, restaurants or even pre-prepared meals in supermarkets are any or much better ....
.
Whilst i am sure that your own kitchen is spotless do you ever consider how the foods are prepared that you cook in your kitchen ?Lone Ranger.

I worked in the Police Training College in Hamble in the canteen and we had regular hygiene training sessions and tests afterwards which is what all restaurant staff should undergo, also the health inspector came around unannounced frequently. Food safety/hygiene should be paramount in ALL eating establishments. Until I worked in the food sector I had no idea how letha lrice could be when left out for hours on end and then being reheated.

I worked in the Police Training College in Hamble in the canteen and we had regular hygiene training sessions and tests afterwards which is what all restaurant staff should undergo, also the health inspector came around unannounced frequently. Food safety/hygiene should be paramount in ALL eating establishments. Until I worked in the food sector I had no idea how letha lrice could be when left out for hours on end and then being reheated.sparkster

The probelm these days is you can sign up to an internet site, site a £15 test and pass with a so called Food Hygiene Certifcate, how this supposed to fulfill Due Diligence is beyon=d me, yet it suffices, no control on who is actually sitting the test etc.

Also for someone to of had salmonella for two weeks you look surprisingly well, one would of thought you be looking very slim.

The probelm these days is you can sign up to an internet site, site a £15 test and pass with a so called Food Hygiene Certifcate, how this supposed to fulfill Due Diligence is beyon=d me, yet it suffices, no control on who is actually sitting the test etc.
Also for someone to of had salmonella for two weeks you look surprisingly well, one would of thought you be looking very slim.999medic

999medic wrote:
The probelm these days is you can sign up to an internet site, site a £15 test and pass with a so called Food Hygiene Certifcate, how this supposed to fulfill Due Diligence is beyon=d me, yet it suffices, no control on who is actually sitting the test etc.

Also for someone to of had salmonella for two weeks you look surprisingly well, one would of thought you be looking very slim.

Good point, but perhaps he looked like Billy Bunter two weeks ago, and has been saved from a life of obesity and Type-2 Diabetes by his experience.

I'm sure he's not just ramping up the rhetoric to support a claim. Oh no.

[quote][p][bold]999medic[/bold] wrote:
The probelm these days is you can sign up to an internet site, site a £15 test and pass with a so called Food Hygiene Certifcate, how this supposed to fulfill Due Diligence is beyon=d me, yet it suffices, no control on who is actually sitting the test etc.
Also for someone to of had salmonella for two weeks you look surprisingly well, one would of thought you be looking very slim.[/p][/quote]Good point, but perhaps he looked like Billy Bunter two weeks ago, and has been saved from a life of obesity and Type-2 Diabetes by his experience.
I'm sure he's not just ramping up the rhetoric to support a claim. Oh no.From the sidelines

Firstly..... Is there a before and after picture, to compare his body to??? I eat out at some lovely restraunts but unfortunately chose the wrong one that day! Also I would not have went back even if we didn't all get sick. The food tasted all the same and wasn't nice at all. People really should have some respect and just not comment if it's mean, or hasn't affected them. You all have no idea what we've all been through and I'm disgusted by some peoples rudeness. Keep eating there if it re-opens. Will serve you right!

Firstly..... Is there a before and after picture, to compare his body to??? I eat out at some lovely restraunts but unfortunately chose the wrong one that day! Also I would not have went back even if we didn't all get sick. The food tasted all the same and wasn't nice at all. People really should have some respect and just not comment if it's mean, or hasn't affected them. You all have no idea what we've all been through and I'm disgusted by some peoples rudeness. Keep eating there if it re-opens. Will serve you right!Waryone

If someone shares a story of an unpleasant experience in the hope of maybe warning others not to eat at a certain place so they dont go through what he did surely it doesnt necessarily mean they want to claim, I hope this lad makes a complete recovery and the 3 year old girl mentioned the other day, like any nasty experience unless youve been there you cant possibly know what it's like. Im glad George shared his story and it might just help others, not everybody wants to jump on the claim bandwagon

If someone shares a story of an unpleasant experience in the hope of maybe warning others not to eat at a certain place so they dont go through what he did surely it doesnt necessarily mean they want to claim, I hope this lad makes a complete recovery and the 3 year old girl mentioned the other day, like any nasty experience unless youve been there you cant possibly know what it's like. Im glad George shared his story and it might just help others, not everybody wants to jump on the claim bandwagonsparkster

I contracted a rare form of Salmonella about 10 years ago and after some investigations, although not conclusive, it's most likely source was a pre-packed chicken sandwich from a major supermarket...So, you think you might only pick up this hideous illness from some dodgy back street kebab shop...think again.

As my case seemed just to be a one off with no other reported cases it couldn't definitely be proven it was the sandwich but it was identified as sourced from chicken or egg. After a week in hospital on a drip, in an isolation unit with the most dreadful and crippling symptoms, I wouldn't wish it on anyone. Also, you can experience symptoms for many months afterwards and I am have a weaker immunity to food I could once tolerate.

I hope all those affected soon on the mend and the source is identified so as to prevent further infection.

I contracted a rare form of Salmonella about 10 years ago and after some investigations, although not conclusive, it's most likely source was a pre-packed chicken sandwich from a major supermarket...So, you think you might only pick up this hideous illness from some dodgy back street kebab shop...think again.
As my case seemed just to be a one off with no other reported cases it couldn't definitely be proven it was the sandwich but it was identified as sourced from chicken or egg. After a week in hospital on a drip, in an isolation unit with the most dreadful and crippling symptoms, I wouldn't wish it on anyone. Also, you can experience symptoms for many months afterwards and I am have a weaker immunity to food I could once tolerate.
I hope all those affected soon on the mend and the source is identified so as to prevent further infection.kim garner

I ate their on Fri 18 July for my stag night. It had come recommended from someone who'd eaten there before. On the Mon 21 Jul, 4 out of the 6 on my stag became ill with food poisoning. I was freezing cold, with severe stomach cramps and diarrhoea and vomiting. I was so ill I couldn't even keep water down.
I was admitted to hospital on Sat 26 Jul, put in isolation, where they took bloods and put me on a drip to rehydrate me.
My wedding was Thurs 31 Jul, and I was still ill for it. I was dizzy, achey, and only just got through the day with lots of imodium and sit downs. It meant I was unable to drink a toast, eat any wedding cake or buffet. I spent the evening on water only.
I submitted a sample on Mon 28, and on Fri 1 Aug they confirmed it was salmonella and informed the council's health services.
It managed to ruin what was supposed to be the happiest day of my life.

I ate their on Fri 18 July for my stag night. It had come recommended from someone who'd eaten there before. On the Mon 21 Jul, 4 out of the 6 on my stag became ill with food poisoning. I was freezing cold, with severe stomach cramps and diarrhoea and vomiting. I was so ill I couldn't even keep water down.
I was admitted to hospital on Sat 26 Jul, put in isolation, where they took bloods and put me on a drip to rehydrate me.
My wedding was Thurs 31 Jul, and I was still ill for it. I was dizzy, achey, and only just got through the day with lots of imodium and sit downs. It meant I was unable to drink a toast, eat any wedding cake or buffet. I spent the evening on water only.
I submitted a sample on Mon 28, and on Fri 1 Aug they confirmed it was salmonella and informed the council's health services.
It managed to ruin what was supposed to be the happiest day of my life.RomseyKeith

RomseyKeith wrote:
I ate their on Fri 18 July for my stag night. It had come recommended from someone who'd eaten there before. On the Mon 21 Jul, 4 out of the 6 on my stag became ill with food poisoning. I was freezing cold, with severe stomach cramps and diarrhoea and vomiting. I was so ill I couldn't even keep water down.
I was admitted to hospital on Sat 26 Jul, put in isolation, where they took bloods and put me on a drip to rehydrate me.
My wedding was Thurs 31 Jul, and I was still ill for it. I was dizzy, achey, and only just got through the day with lots of imodium and sit downs. It meant I was unable to drink a toast, eat any wedding cake or buffet. I spent the evening on water only.
I submitted a sample on Mon 28, and on Fri 1 Aug they confirmed it was salmonella and informed the council's health services.
It managed to ruin what was supposed to be the happiest day of my life.

I was also in hospital for a full week, where thet scanned my heart to make sure the salmonella hadn't got on it, they gave me ct scan, took lots of bloods, and had me on several drips, including an antibiotic drip. It's taken more than 3 weeks for it to clear, and even now I'm still on the antibiotics for it. And this was with a wedding in the middle of it.

[quote][p][bold]RomseyKeith[/bold] wrote:
I ate their on Fri 18 July for my stag night. It had come recommended from someone who'd eaten there before. On the Mon 21 Jul, 4 out of the 6 on my stag became ill with food poisoning. I was freezing cold, with severe stomach cramps and diarrhoea and vomiting. I was so ill I couldn't even keep water down.
I was admitted to hospital on Sat 26 Jul, put in isolation, where they took bloods and put me on a drip to rehydrate me.
My wedding was Thurs 31 Jul, and I was still ill for it. I was dizzy, achey, and only just got through the day with lots of imodium and sit downs. It meant I was unable to drink a toast, eat any wedding cake or buffet. I spent the evening on water only.
I submitted a sample on Mon 28, and on Fri 1 Aug they confirmed it was salmonella and informed the council's health services.
It managed to ruin what was supposed to be the happiest day of my life.[/p][/quote]I was also in hospital for a full week, where thet scanned my heart to make sure the salmonella hadn't got on it, they gave me ct scan, took lots of bloods, and had me on several drips, including an antibiotic drip. It's taken more than 3 weeks for it to clear, and even now I'm still on the antibiotics for it. And this was with a wedding in the middle of it.RomseyKeith